BETHLEHEM, GA — Michael J. Fredette, 64, a former longtime resident of Rutland, died January 5, 2013, in Georgia following a long illness.

He was born on October 1, 1948, in Rutland, the son of Wilfred and Marion (Brown) Fredette.

Mr. Fredette grew up in Rutland, graduating from the Rutland High School in 1967.

He was employed as a manager by the Grossmans Lumber Yard for 26 years. He then worked for the Georgia Pacific Company out of Burlington for several years, prior to being transferred to Atlanta, GA, where he worked for many years prior to his retirement.

He enjoyed drag racing in his younger years, winning several trophies. He loved to watch sports, especially football.

Survivors include his wife Carolann of GA; his mother Marion Fredette of Rutland; a sister Susan Heidelmark and her husband Fred of Earlton, N.Y.; three brothers, William Fredette and his wife Joanne of Benita, FL, Robert Fredette and his companion Patty, and Gary Fredette of Middletown Springs; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father Wilfred C. Fredette on January 16, 1988, and a sister-in-law Joanne Fredette on May 28, 2012.

A memorial service is pending for April at Christ the King Church, 66 South Main Street, Rutland, Vermont.